Today we’d like to introduce you to Rocio Choi.
Rocio, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina; in a Korean immigrant household. Being exposed to two very different cultures fostered my curiosity and enthusiasm towards others and their specific means of expression through the languages of art (particularly through fashion). My interest in fashion was born from exposure to my parents’ textile business. After settling in Argentina with no savings nor university degree, they started the company together. They deal mostly in wholesale, and there is little glamor in it. But their hard work has instilled in me an interest in the industry.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I always knew I wanted to study abroad. In a way, I felt like doing so was crucial for me to continue my growth. I secretly applied to SCAD and got accepted without telling my parents. They were shocked when I first expressed my desire to pursue a career in the USA. My family is very close, and no one had ever ventured so far. They feared to lose me to the United States permanently. It took almost a year of debating and a persuasive PowerPoint detailing my future plans to finally get their approval.
I do not consider myself an artist nor a designer yet but as a student in progress. Progress brings both cheer and challenges every day. Having a dream is not easy, but what you can do is to persist and keep trying. Being enrolled as a full-time student while working two part-time jobs today is never easy. Every decision comes with a weight and a blessing.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am majoring in fashion design and double minoring in fashion marketing and photography. I like to study and do a variety of things because I believe that everything needs a body of different components complementing each other in order to accomplish dynamism and a strong product. I hope to blend these three disciplines into a single voice in the near future. My fiancé and I are currently in the process of launching a brand that not only promotes quality investment pieces but also praises God in everything we do.
In regards to photography, I shoot both film and digital. I do, however, have a larger appreciation for analog photography. Shooting on film feels more like capturing a moment, and I love the beautiful accidents that occur on occasion – it makes the whole process more organic. I don’t touch edit any of the photos I shoot with film. You can check some of my personal work through my Instagram!
I do not sell or promote my work yet. I am enjoying my time as a student while working on developing the brand (and my voice) on the side through all of my art. Yet, I recognize how important social media and marketing is today. I will be sharing my work publicly very soon!
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
The fact that women have been suppressed in the workplace, as well as society, is undeniable, and while this continues today, I see a shift towards society valuing their unique skills and insights. Because of this enculturated suppression, women have become strong, driven, and creative. I am confident that as women are given more opportunity across the world to excel in whatever field they pursue, the cultural value will naturally follow. Currently, there are many opportunities for women as long as they are ardent about their work. I hope that we continue to assert not only our capabilities but our narrative into the public consciousness. I am a firm believer that everyone (of any gender) is well-positioned to do whatever they put their mind towards.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 470-363-7544
- Email: rociochoi98@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rociochoi/
Image Credit:
Images shot by Rocio Choi Film
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